5 Tips to Help You Get Through the Marriage and Family Therapy Program

5 Tips to Help You Get Through the Marriage and Family Therapy Program

By: Lyrica Solomon, MS

Not sure if you are cut out for the Marriage and Family Therapy Program? Well, I wasn't either. I was a lot skeptical about taking that leap of faith with my education. Getting my Bachelor's degree seemed like a "walk in the park", but what if graduate school challenged me and I couldn't rise to the occasion? Well, I wasn't completely right in my skepticism's. I am now a graduate of this program and these are the five most helpful things that helped me along the way.

Be sensitive/gentle. Graduate school can be a different experience from the typical schooling that you are used to. Some people adjust without a problem, some people struggle a little, and some people struggle a lot. Through it all, be gentle with yourself and sensitive to those around you because they are in the same boat as you.

Self-care. How can I help someone if I am not, first, taking care of myself. Not just specific to helping professions, but self-care is super important. Find activities, places, people, regimens, etc. that help you to stay grounded in who you are.

Stay connected. Thinking social media here? Not exactly. I can't emphasize how helpful it was for me to cultivate relationships with those around me. It was very comforting to be able to share my experiences with people who were struggling just like me.

Make mistakes. "The only real mistake is the one from which we learn nothing" -- John Powell

John Powell is simply stating that we learn from our mistakes. So, don't be afraid to make mistakes because these are perfect opportunities for growth.

Practice. Yes, practice still makes perfect (even in graduate school). Practice what interests you within the field of MFT, and know that, with lots of practice, you will begin to find your niche.

So, what will be your story once you complete this program?